[nkozyra]

I remember reading a cogent explanation for this inconsistency but can't seem to locate it.

JavaScript suffers from inconsistent mutation/return of array values in array functions, too.

PHPs design problems are mostly being swept away; it's the legacy that keeps its reputation down.

[aspratley]

Rasmus Lerdorf has talked about it in other videos but this is one https://youtu.be/iGOAQli7tGc?t=1485

Basically, groups of functions are consistent: string,array etc. Their parameter order was usually based on whatever the underlying C API was.